'DWTS' Judge Derek Hough 'Heartbroken' Over Len Goodman's Passing

The internet woke up in shock after reading that former "Dancing With the Stars" judge and "Strictly Come Dancing" alum Len Goodman passed away. The 78-year-old died peacefully while in hospice care in Kent, England. The cause, according to his agent, was bone cancer.

Now, fellow "Dancing With the Stars" judge Derek Hough is breaking his silence on the news, saying he is "heartbroken."

Derek Hough shared a video to TikTok of himself and Len Goodman having fun this past season of "Dancing With the Stars."

In the video, Hough and Goodman are seen laughing and smiling, and then the two break out in dance, but the caption tears fans' eyes.

https://www.tiktok.com/@derekhough/video/7225641036998118698?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7192587705921848874

"'Hold my gaze.' Heartbroken by the news of our dear friend and mentor Len Goodman," he began. "It's a gloomy morning here in Los Angeles, which seems fitting after this heartbreaking news. But when I think back at the memories we all shared with Len, his sense of humor, his smile, and his charm, everything feels much brighter and full of sunshine.

Hough concluded, "Still hard to fully process but filled with gratitude knowing I had the privilege of working beside this absolute legend."

Fans quickly commented on the video, sharing their memories and love for the late "Dancing With the Stars" judge. "Have loved Len from season 1…he was a legend and will be missed! ❤️❤️❤️," one fan wrote as another chimed in, "He seemed like such a joyful man. I'm sorry for your loss."

Another commented, "The dance you included him in a few years ago was so touching. I'll be watching that today in his honor ❤️."

Former "Dancing With the Stars" professional dancer Sharna Burgess posted a sweet photo of her and Len Goodman holding hands and laughing. She paid tribute to the late dance judge in the caption, writing, "10 paddles all around for you, my friend. What an incredible impact you had on the Ballroom Dancing industry and those of us lucky enough to work with you. You helped bring our art form to the world in a new way; you helped us show how beautiful and special it is… how cool it could be."

She continued, "Thank you for always reminding us where we came from, for always authentically being yourself, for all the tough love, and especially for the 10s. A 10 from you was about the greatest feeling we could hope for on show day."

The former professional dancer concluded with, "I'm sure you are surrounded by all the things you love up there, like perfect technique and traditional moves :) Rest in Peace, my Grumpy Old Len, and save a dance for me 🤍🕊️."

A few months ago, Len Goodman announced he would be retiring from the ABC reality show to spend more time in his home country of the United Kingdom.

Rest in peace, Len Goodman.